Evaluate Henry Fielding’s art of characterization in “Tom Jones.”

Answer

Evaluate Henry Fielding’s art of characterization in “Tom Jones.”

Or, Write a short note on the characterization of Henry Fielding in “Tom Jones.” 

‘Art of Characterization’ means how an author creates, presents, and develops his/her characters in the story. Henry Fielding’s (1707-1754) “Tom Jones” (1749) is especially remarkable for his art of characterization. In this novel, Fielding’s characters are lively and realistic. They are from different classes of 18th-century English society. They help us understand society, human nature, and morality in an enjoyable way.

Lifelike Characters: Henry Fielding’s characters are not lifeless puppets; they have good and bad sides like real people. Fielding shows their emotions, struggles, and growth naturally. Tom Jones, the central character of this novel, is the best example. Tom is a handsome, brave, and kind young man. He is always ready to help others, like when he gives money to poor Black George. Mr. Allworthy sees his good nature and says:

“I am convinced, my child, that you have much goodness, generosity, and honour, in your temper.”

However, Tom is also full of youthful mischief. He follows his passion and gets involved with many women, like Molly and Mrs. Waters. This causes him a lot of trouble. Tom learns from his mistakes slowly.

Another lifelike character is Mr. Square Allworthy. He is kind and generous. He gives shelter to infant Tom when he finds him on his bed. However, he makes mistakes because of his blind trust in people like Blifil and Thwackum. He banishes Tom. This shows that even good people can be wrong. Fielding’s lifelike characters make this novel relatable and enjoyable.

Hypocrites and Villains: Fielding skillfully shows hypocrites who pretend to be good but are selfish and cunning. Blifil pretends to be obedient and religious. But he is actually greedy, jealous, and deceitful. He lies to Squire Allworthy to make Tom appear bad. Thwackum, Tom’s tutor, pretends to teach religion but uses religion to punish Tom and support Blifil. Through these characters, Fielding shows that